Muhammadu Buhari Passes Away at 82
Former Nigerian president Muhammadu Buhari has passed away at the age of 82. He died on Sunday at a London clinic, where he had been receiving medical care.
The news was confirmed by Garba Shehu, his former aide, who shared that the family made the announcement following his death. Though details about the illness were not revealed, it was known that Buhari had been undergoing treatment in the UK for several days.
Shortly after the announcement, a number of close associates and dignitaries—including General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retired), Boss Mustapha, Rochas Okorocha, Governors Dikko Radda and Umar Bago, and businessman Abdulsamad Rabiu—were seen visiting the clinic. Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar was also among the early mourners.
Just a week prior, Garba Shehu had offered some assurance about Buhari’s condition, stating that he was in recovery and improving daily. At the time, he noted that the former president still maintained a healthy lifestyle and routine.
A Life of Service
Buhari led Nigeria in two distinct chapters of history—first as a military ruler from 1984 to 1985, and later as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023. Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, he was raised by his mother after losing his father at an early age.
He began his military journey in 1961, rising through the ranks to hold several notable positions, including Governor of the former North-Eastern State, General Officer Commanding various divisions, and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. He also served as Petroleum Minister under General Obasanjo.
His 1983 emergence as Head of State followed a military takeover. His administration introduced the War Against Indiscipline, a campaign remembered for its tough stance on civic order. However, his rule ended abruptly in 1985 when he was overthrown.
Years later, Buhari returned to the public eye as the chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund and eventually entered politics. Despite early electoral losses in 2003, 2007, and 2011, he won the presidency in 2015 under the All Progressives Congress platform, marking the first time an incumbent president lost at the federal level.
Legacy and Personal Life
Known for his austere lifestyle and discipline, Buhari remained a complex figure—revered by supporters as principled, criticized by opponents for his governance style.
He married twice—first to Safinatu Yusuf and later to Aisha Halilu—with whom he had a total of ten children.
Even while serving as president, he made a point of publicly declaring his assets, which included modest property holdings and livestock, reinforcing his image as someone detached from the excesses of office.
After handing over power to Bola Tinubu in May 2023, Buhari quietly retired to his hometown in Daura before relocating to Kaduna. He rarely made public appearances and kept a low profile, which he described as part of a “Spartan lifestyle.”
A Quiet Farewell
In the final months, Buhari’s home became a place of quiet visits from allies, admirers, and political figures. African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina paid his respects in April, thanking him for his support during his re-election bid.
His last days were marked by peace and reflection, surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers who came to say goodbye to a man who shaped Nigeria’s history in many ways.
President Bola Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari, has since ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. Vice President Kashim Shettima has been sent to the UK to accompany the former leader’s body home.
In mourning, the nation remembers a life of service, discipline, and quiet conviction.
